LANDMARK BANCORP INC

Previous wording

There are risks inherent in making any loan, including risks inherent in dealing with individual borrowers, risks of nonpayment, risks resulting from uncertainties as to the future value of collateral and risks resulting from changes in economic and industry conditions. In general, these risks have increased as a result of the recent increases in prevailing interest rates and uncertainties associated with inflation, which have potentially increased the risk of a near-term decline in growth or an economic downturn. We attempt to minimize our credit risk through prudent loan application approval procedures, careful monitoring of the concentration of our loans within specific industries and periodic independent reviews of outstanding loans by our credit review department. However, we cannot assure you that such approval and monitoring procedures will reduce these credit risks.

Current wording

There are risks inherent in making any loan, including risks inherent in dealing with individual borrowers, risks of nonpayment, risks resulting from uncertainties as to the future value of collateral and risks resulting from changes in economic and industry conditions. In general, these risks have increased as a result of recent changes in prevailing interest rates and uncertainties associated with inflation, which have potentially increased the risk of a near-term decline in growth or an economic downturn. We attempt to minimize our credit risk through prudent loan application approval procedures, careful monitoring of the concentration of our loans within specific industries and periodic independent reviews of outstanding loans by our credit review department. However, we cannot assure you that such approval and monitoring procedures will reduce these credit risks.

Previous wording

Most of our loans are commercial, real estate, or agriculture loans, each of which is subject to distinct types of risk. To reduce the lending risks we face, we generally take a security interest in borrowers’ property for all three types of loans. In addition, we sell certain residential real estate loans to third parties. Nevertheless, the risk of non-payment is inherent in all types of loans, and if we are unable to collect amounts owed, it may materially affect our operations and financial performance. For a more complete discussion of our lending activities see Item 1 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Current wording

Most of our loans are commercial, real estate, or agriculture loans, each of which is subject to distinct types of risk. To reduce the lending risks we face, we generally take a security interest in borrowers’ property for all three types of loans. In addition, we sell certain residential real estate loans to third parties. Nevertheless, the risk of non-payment is inherent in all types of loans, and if we are unable to collect amounts owed, it may materially affect our operations and financial performance. For a more complete discussion of our lending activities see “Item 1. Business” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Previous wording

Our financial performance generally, and in particular the ability of customers to pay interest on and repay principal of outstanding loans and the value of collateral securing those loans, as well as demand for loans and other products and services we offer, is highly dependent upon the business environment not only in the markets where we operate, but also in the state of Kansas generally and in the United States as a whole. A favorable business environment is generally characterized by, among other factors: economic growth; efficient capital markets; low inflation; low unemployment; high business and investor confidence; and strong business earnings. Unfavorable or uncertain economic and market conditions can be caused by: declines in economic growth, business activity or investor or business confidence; limitations on the availability or increases in the cost of credit and capital; increases in inflation or interest rates; high unemployment; uncertainty in U.S. trade policies, legislation, treaties and tariffs; natural disasters; acts of war or terrorism, including the current conflict in Ukraine; widespread disease or pandemics; or a combination of these or other factors.

Current wording

Our financial performance generally, and in particular the ability of customers to pay interest on and repay principal of outstanding loans and the value of collateral securing those loans, as well as demand for loans and other products and services we offer, is highly dependent upon the business environment not only in the markets where we operate, but also in the state of Kansas generally and in the U.S. as a whole. A favorable business environment is generally characterized by, among other factors: economic growth; efficient capital markets; low inflation; low unemployment; high business and investor confidence; and strong business earnings. Unfavorable or uncertain economic and market conditions can be caused by: declines in economic growth, business activity or investor or business confidence; limitations on the availability or increases in the cost of credit and capital; increases in inflation or interest rates; high unemployment; uncertainty in U.S. trade policies, legislation, treaties and tariffs; natural disasters; acts of war or terrorism, including the current conflict in Ukraine; widespread disease or pandemics; or a combination of these or other factors.

Previous wording

The United States has recently experienced elevated levels of inflation, with the consumer price index climbing approximately 3.4% in 2023. Continued levels of inflation could have complex effects on our business and results of operations, some of which could be materially adverse. For example, elevated inflation harms consumer purchasing power, which could negatively affect our retail customers and the economic environment and, ultimately, many of our business customers, and could also negatively affect our levels of non-interest expense. In addition, if interest rates continue to rise in response to, or as a result of, elevated levels of inflation, the value of our securities portfolio would be negatively impacted. Continued elevated levels of inflation could also cause increased volatility and uncertainty in the business environment, which could adversely affect loan demand and our clients’ ability to repay indebtedness. It is also possible that governmental responses to the current inflation environment could adversely affect our business, such as changes to monetary and fiscal policy that are too strict, or the imposition or threatened imposition of price controls. The duration and severity of the current inflationary period cannot be estimated with precision.

Current wording

The U.S. has recently experienced elevated levels of inflation, with the consumer price index climbing approximately 2.9% in 2024. Continued levels of inflation could have complex effects on our business and results of operations, some of which could be materially adverse. For example, elevated inflation harms consumer purchasing power, which could negatively affect our retail customers and the economic environment and, ultimately, many of our business customers, and could also negatively affect our levels of non-interest expense. In addition, if interest rates continue to remain elevated, the value of our securities portfolio would be negatively impacted. Continued elevated levels of inflation could also cause increased volatility and uncertainty in the business environment, which could adversely affect loan demand and our clients’ ability to repay indebtedness. It is also possible that governmental responses to the current inflation environment could adversely affect our business, such as changes to monetary and fiscal policy that are too strict, or the imposition or threatened imposition of price controls. The duration and severity of the current inflationary period cannot be estimated with precision.

Previous wording

We maintain our allowance for credit losses at a level considered appropriate by management to absorb all expected future losses expected in the loan portfolio at the balance sheet date. Additionally, our Board of Directors regularly monitors the appropriateness of our allowance for credit losses. The allowance is also subject to regulatory examinations and a determination by the regulatory agencies as to the appropriate level of the allowance. The amount of future credit losses is susceptible to changes in economic, operating and other conditions, including changes in interest rates and the value of the underlying collateral, which may be beyond our control, and such losses may exceed current estimates. At December 31, 2023 and 2022, our allowance for credit losses as a percentage of total loans, was 1.12% and 1.03%, respectively, and as a percentage of total non-performing loans was 443.66% and 264.31%, respectively. Although management believes that the allowance for credit losses is appropriate to absorb future losses on any existing loans that may become uncollectible, we cannot predict credit losses with certainty nor can we assure you that our allowance for credit losses will prove sufficient to cover actual credit losses in the future. Credit losses in excess of our reserves will adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

We maintain our allowance for credit losses at a level considered appropriate by management to absorb all expected future losses expected in the loan portfolio at the balance sheet date. Additionally, our Board of Directors regularly monitors the appropriateness of our allowance for credit losses. The allowance is also subject to regulatory examinations and a determination by the regulatory agencies as to the appropriate level of the allowance. The amount of future credit losses is susceptible to changes in economic, operating and other conditions, including changes in interest rates and the value of the underlying collateral, which may be beyond our control, and such losses may exceed current estimates. At December 31, 2024 and 2023, our allowance for credit losses as a percentage of total loans, was 1.22% and 1.12%, respectively, and as a percentage of total non-performing loans was 97.79% and 443.66%, respectively. Although management believes that the allowance for credit losses is appropriate to absorb future losses on any existing loans that may become uncollectible, we cannot predict credit losses with certainty nor can we assure you that our allowance for credit losses will prove sufficient to cover actual credit losses in the future. Credit losses in excess of our reserves will adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

Also, as of January 1, 2023, the Company was required to adopt accounting standard update (“ASU”) 2016-13, Financial Instruments – Credit Losses (Topic 326), commonly referred to as “CECL”. CECL changed how the Company calculates its allowance for credit losses by requiring the Company to determine periodic estimates of lifetime expected credit losses on loans and recognize the expected credit losses as allowances for credit losses. This is a change from the previous method of providing allowances for credit losses that are incurred.

Current wording

Also, as of January 1, 2023, the Company was required to adopt accounting standard update (“ASU”) 2016-13, Financial Instruments – Credit Losses (Topic 326). CECL changed how the Company calculates its allowance for credit losses by requiring the Company to determine periodic estimates of lifetime expected credit losses on loans and recognize the expected credit losses as allowances for credit losses. This is a change from the previous method of providing allowances for credit losses that are incurred.

Previous wording

One-to-four family residential mortgage loans comprised $302.5 million and $237.0 million, or 31.9% and 27.9%, of our loan portfolio at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. These loans are secured primarily by properties located in the state of Kansas. Our concentration of these loans results in lower yields relative to other loan categories within our loan portfolio. While these loans generally possess higher yields than investment securities, their repayment characteristics are not as well defined, and they generally possess a higher degree of interest rate risk versus other loans and investment securities within our portfolio. This increased interest rate risk is due to the repayment and prepayment options inherent in residential mortgage loans which are exercised by borrowers based upon the overall level of interest rates. These residential mortgage loans are generally made on the basis of the borrower’s ability to make repayments from his or her employment and the value of the property securing the loan. Thus, as a result, repayment of these loans is also subject to general economic and employment conditions within the communities and surrounding areas where the property is located.

Current wording

One-to-four family residential mortgage loans comprised $352.2 million and $302.5 million, or 33.5% and 31.9%, of our loan portfolio at December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. These loans are secured primarily by properties located in the state of Kansas. Our concentration of these loans results in lower yields relative to other loan categories within our loan portfolio. While these loans generally possess higher yields than investment securities, their repayment characteristics are not as well defined, and they generally possess a higher degree of interest rate risk versus other loans and investment securities within our portfolio. This increased interest rate risk is due to the repayment and prepayment options inherent in residential mortgage loans which are exercised by borrowers based upon the overall level of interest rates. These residential mortgage loans are generally made on the basis of the borrower’s ability to make repayments from his or her employment and the value of the property securing the loan. Thus, as a result, repayment of these loans is also subject to general economic and employment conditions within the communities and surrounding areas where the property is located.

Previous wording

Real estate lending (including commercial real estate, construction and land and residential real estate) is a large portion of our loan portfolio. These categories were $644.6 million, or approximately 67.9% of our total loan portfolio, as of December 31, 2023, as compared to $563.8 million, or approximately 66.3% of our total loan portfolio, as of December 31, 2022. The market value of real estate can fluctuate significantly in a short period of time as a result of market conditions in the geographic area in which the real estate is located. Although a significant portion of commercial real estate and construction and land loans are secured by a secondary form of collateral, adverse developments affecting real estate values in one or more of our markets could increase the credit risk associated with our loan portfolio. Additionally, real estate lending typically involves higher loan principal amounts, and the repayment of the loans generally is dependent, in large part, on sufficient income from the properties securing the loans to cover operating expenses and debt service. Economic events or governmental regulations outside of the control of the borrower or lender could negatively impact the future cash flow and market values of the affected properties, including (i) declines in the rents or decreases in occupancy and, therefore, in the cash flows generated by those real properties on which the borrowers depend to fund their loan payments to us, (ii) decreases in the values of those real properties, which make it more difficult for the borrowers to sell those real properties for amounts sufficient to repay their loans in full, and (iii) job losses of residential home buyers, which makes it more difficult for these borrowers to fund their loan payments. Adverse changes affecting real estate values, including decreases in office occupancy due to the shift to remote working environments following the COVID-19 pandemic, and the liquidity of real estate in one or more of the Company’s markets could increase the credit risk associated with the Company’s loan portfolio, significantly impair the value of property pledged as collateral on loans and affect the Company’s ability to sell the collateral upon foreclosure without a loss or additional losses or the Company’s ability to sell those loans on the secondary market.

Current wording

Real estate lending (including CRE, construction and land and residential real estate) comprises the largest portion of our loan portfolio. These categories were $722.7 million, or approximately 68.7% of our total loan portfolio, as of December 31, 2024, as compared to $644.6 million, or approximately 67.9% of our total loan portfolio, as of December 31, 2023. The market value of real estate can fluctuate significantly in a short period of time as a result of market conditions in the geographic area in which the real estate is located. Although a significant portion of CRE and construction and land loans are secured by a secondary form of collateral, adverse developments affecting real estate values in one or more of our markets could increase the credit risk associated with our loan portfolio. Additionally, real estate lending typically involves higher loan principal amounts, and the repayment of the loans generally is dependent, in large part, on sufficient income from the properties securing the loans to cover operating expenses and debt service. Economic events or governmental regulations outside of the control of the borrower or lender could negatively impact the future cash flow and market values of the affected properties, including (i) declines in the rents or decreases in occupancy and, therefore, in the cash flows generated by those real properties on which the borrowers depend to fund their loan payments to us, (ii) decreases in the values of those real properties, which make it more difficult for the borrowers to sell those real properties for amounts sufficient to repay their loans in full, and (iii) job losses of residential home buyers, which makes it more difficult for these borrowers to fund their loan payments. Adverse changes affecting real estate values, including decreases in office occupancy due to the shift to remote working environments following the COVID-19 pandemic, and the liquidity of real estate in one or more of the Company’s markets could increase the credit risk associated with the Company’s loan portfolio, significantly impair the value of property pledged as collateral on loans and affect the Company’s ability to sell the collateral upon foreclosure without a loss or additional losses or the Company’s ability to sell those loans on the secondary market.

Previous wording

The Company’s loan portfolio has a large concentration of commercial real estate loans, which involve risks specific to real estate values and the health of the real estate market generally.

Current wording

The Company’s loan portfolio has a large concentration of CRE loans, which involve risks specific to real estate values and the health of the real estate market generally.

Previous wording

As of December 31, 2023, the Company had $342.1 million of commercial real estate loans, consisting of $100.6 million of non-owner occupied loans, $181.7 million of owner occupied loans, $38.6 million of loans secured by multifamily residential properties and $21.1 million of construction and land development loans. Commercial real estate loans represented 36.1% of the Company’s total loan portfolio and 237% of the Bank’s total capital at December 31, 2023. The market value of real estate can fluctuate significantly in a short period of time as a result of interest rates and market conditions in the area in which the real estate is located and some of these values have been negatively affected by the recent rise in prevailing interest rates. Adverse developments affecting real estate values in the Company’s market areas could increase the credit risk associated with the Company’s loan portfolio. Additionally, the repayment of commercial real estate loans generally is dependent, in large part, on sufficient income from the properties securing the loans to cover operating expenses and debt service. Economic events, including decreases in office occupancy due to the shift to remote working environments following the COVID-19 pandemic, or governmental regulations outside of the control of the borrower or lender could negatively impact the future cash flow and market values of the affected properties. If the loans that are collateralized by real estate become troubled during a time when market conditions are declining or have declined, then the Company may not be able to realize the full value of the collateral that the Company anticipated at the time of originating the loan, which could force the Company to take charge-offs or require the Company to increase the Company’s provision for credit losses, which could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition, results of operations and growth prospects.

Current wording

As of December 31, 2024, the Company had $370.5 million of CRE loans, consisting of $110.7 million of non-owner occupied loans, $197.2 million of owner occupied loans, $37.3 million of loans secured by multifamily residential properties and $25.3 million of construction and land development loans. CRE loans represented 35.2% of the Company’s total loan portfolio and 272% of the Bank’s total capital at December 31, 2024. The market value of real estate can fluctuate significantly in a short period of time as a result of interest rates and market conditions in the area in which the real estate is located and some of these values have been negatively affected by the recent rise in prevailing interest rates. Adverse developments affecting real estate values in the Company’s market areas could increase the credit risk associated with the Company’s loan portfolio. Additionally, the repayment of CRE loans generally is dependent, in large part, on sufficient income from the properties securing the loans to cover operating expenses and debt service. Economic events, including decreases in office occupancy due to the shift to remote working environments following the COVID-19 pandemic, or governmental regulations outside of the control of the borrower or lender could negatively impact the future cash flow and market values of the affected properties. If the loans that are collateralized by real estate become troubled during a time when market conditions are declining or have declined, then the Company may not be able to realize the full value of the collateral that the Company anticipated at the time of originating the loan, which could force the Company to take charge-offs or require the Company to increase the Company’s provision for credit losses, which could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition, results of operations and growth prospects.

Previous wording

Commercial loans comprised $180.9 million and $173.4 million, or 19.1% and 20.4%, of our loan portfolio at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Our commercial loans are made based primarily on the identified cash flow of the borrower and secondarily on the underlying collateral provided by the borrower. Most often, this collateral is accounts receivable, inventory, or machinery. Credit support provided by the borrower for most of these loans, and the probability of repayment is based on the liquidation of the pledged collateral and enforcement of a personal guarantee, if any exists. As a result, in the case of loans secured by accounts receivable, the availability of funds for the repayment of these loans may be substantially dependent on the ability of the borrower to collect amounts due from its customers. The collateral securing other loans may depreciate over time, may be difficult to appraise and may fluctuate in value based on the success of the business. Due to the larger average size of each commercial loan as compared with other loans such as residential loans, as well as collateral that is generally less readily marketable, losses incurred on a small number of commercial loans could have a material adverse impact on our financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

Commercial loans comprised $192.3 million and $180.9 million, or 18.3% and 19.1%, of our loan portfolio at December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. Our commercial loans are made based primarily on the identified cash flow of the borrower and secondarily on the underlying collateral provided by the borrower. Most often, this collateral is accounts receivable, inventory, or machinery. Credit support provided by the borrower for most of these loans, and the probability of repayment is based on the liquidation of the pledged collateral and enforcement of a personal guarantee, if any exists. As a result, in the case of loans secured by accounts receivable, the availability of funds for the repayment of these loans may be substantially dependent on the ability of the borrower to collect amounts due from its customers. The collateral securing other loans may depreciate over time, may be difficult to appraise and may fluctuate in value based on the success of the business. Due to the larger average size of each commercial loan as compared with other loans such as residential loans, as well as collateral that is generally less readily marketable, losses incurred on a small number of commercial loans could have a material adverse impact on our financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

Agriculture operating loans comprised $49.6 million and $46.3 million, or 5.3% and 5.4%, of our loan portfolio at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The repayment of agriculture operating loans is dependent on the successful operation or management of the farm property. Likewise, agricultural operating loans involve a greater degree of risk than lending on residential properties, particularly in the case of loans that are unsecured or secured by rapidly depreciating assets such as farm equipment, livestock or crops. We generally secure agricultural operating loans with a blanket lien on livestock, equipment, food, hay, grain and crops. Nevertheless, any repossessed collateral for a defaulted loan may not provide an adequate source of repayment of the outstanding loan balance as a result of the greater likelihood of damage, loss or depreciation.

Current wording

Agriculture operating loans comprised $51.9 million and $49.6 million, or 4.9% and 5.3%, of our loan portfolio at December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. The repayment of agriculture operating loans is dependent on the successful operation or management of the farm property. Likewise, agricultural operating loans involve a greater degree of risk than lending on residential properties, particularly in the case of loans that are unsecured or secured by rapidly depreciating assets such as farm equipment, livestock or crops. We generally secure agricultural operating loans with a blanket lien on livestock, equipment, food, hay, grain and crops. Nevertheless, any repossessed collateral for a defaulted loan may not provide an adequate source of repayment of the outstanding loan balance as a result of the greater likelihood of damage, loss or depreciation.

Previous wording

We also originate agriculture real estate loans. At December 31, 2023 and 2022, agricultural real estate loans totaled $40.1 million and $38.0 million, or 4.2% and 4.5% of our total loan portfolio, respectively. Agricultural real estate lending involves a greater degree of risk and typically involves larger loans to single borrowers than lending on single-family residences. As with agriculture operating loans, payments on agricultural real estate loans are dependent on the profitable operation or management of the farm property securing the loan. The success of the farm may be affected by many factors outside the control of the farm borrower, including adverse weather conditions that prevent the planting of a crop or limit crop yields (such as hail, drought and floods), loss of livestock due to disease or other factors, declines in market prices for agricultural products (both domestically and internationally) and the impact of government regulations (including changes in price supports, tariffs, trade agreements, subsidies and environmental regulations). In addition, many farms are dependent on a limited number of key individuals whose injury or death may significantly affect the successful operation of the farm. If the cash flow from a farming operation is diminished, the borrower’s ability to repay the loan may be impaired. The primary crops in our market areas are wheat, corn and soybean. Accordingly, adverse circumstances affecting wheat, corn and soybean crops could have an adverse effect on our agricultural real estate loan portfolio.

Current wording

We also originate agriculture real estate loans. At December 31, 2024 and 2023, agricultural real estate loans totaled $48.7 million and $40.1 million, or 4.6% and 4.2% of our total loan portfolio, respectively. Agricultural real estate lending involves a greater degree of risk and typically involves larger loans to single borrowers than lending on single-family residences. As with agriculture operating loans, payments on agricultural real estate loans are dependent on the profitable operation or management of the farm property securing the loan. The success of the farm may be affected by many factors outside the control of the farm borrower, including adverse weather conditions that prevent the planting of a crop or limit crop yields (such as hail, drought and floods), loss of livestock due to disease or other factors, declines in market prices for agricultural products (both domestically and internationally) and the impact of government regulations (including changes in price supports, tariffs, trade agreements, subsidies and environmental regulations). In addition, many farms are dependent on a limited number of key individuals whose injury or death may significantly affect the successful operation of the farm. If the cash flow from a farming operation is diminished, the borrower’s ability to repay the loan may be impaired. The primary crops in our market areas are wheat, corn and soybean. Accordingly, adverse circumstances affecting wheat, corn and soybean crops could have an adverse effect on our agricultural real estate loan portfolio.

Previous wording

As of December 31, 2023, our non-performing loans (which consist of non-accrual loans and loans past due 90 days or more and still accruing interest) totaled $2.4 million, or 0.25% of our loan portfolio, and our non-performing assets (which include non-performing loans plus real estate owned) totaled $3.3 million, or 0.21% of total assets. In addition, we had $1.6 million in accruing loans that were 30-89 days delinquent as of December 31, 2023.

Current wording

As of December 31, 2024, our non-performing loans (which consist of non-accrual loans and loans past due 90 days or more and still accruing interest) totaled $13.1 million, or 1.25% of our loan portfolio, and our non-performing assets (which include non-performing loans plus real estate owned) totaled $13.3 million, or 0.84% of total assets. In addition, we had $6.2 million in accruing loans that were 30-89 days delinquent as of December 31, 2024.

Previous wording

Our profitability is in part a function of the spread between the interest rates earned on investments and loans and the interest rates paid on deposits and other interest-bearing liabilities. Like most banking institutions, our net interest spread and margin will be affected by general economic conditions and other factors, including fiscal and monetary policies of the federal government that influence market interest rates and our ability to respond to changes in such rates. At any given time, our assets and liabilities will be such that they are affected differently by a given change in interest rates. It is currently expected that during 2024, and perhaps beyond, the Federal Open Market Committee of the Federal Reserve, or FOMC, will continue to monitor interest rates, in part to reduce the rate of inflation to its preferred level. In 2023, the FOMC increased at various dates throughout the year the target range for the federal funds rate from 4.25% to 4.50% to a range of 5.25% to 5.50%. All of these increases were expressly made in response to inflationary pressures. If the FOMC further increases the targeted federal funds rates, overall interest rates likely will rise, which may negatively impact the entire national economy. As a result, an increase or decrease in rates, the length of loan terms or the mix of adjustable and fixed rate loans in our portfolio could have a positive or negative effect on our net income, capital and liquidity. We measure interest rate risk under various rate scenarios and using specific criteria and assumptions. A summary of this process, along with the results of our net interest income simulations, is presented in the section entitled Item 7A. “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.” Although we believe our current level of interest rate sensitivity is reasonable and effectively managed, significant fluctuations in interest rates may have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

Our profitability is in part a function of the spread between the interest rates earned on investments and loans and the interest rates paid on deposits and other interest-bearing liabilities. Like most banking institutions, our net interest spread and margin will be affected by general economic conditions and other factors, including fiscal and monetary policies of the federal government that influence market interest rates and our ability to respond to changes in such rates. At any given time, our assets and liabilities will be such that they are affected differently by a given change in interest rates. It is currently expected that during 2025, and perhaps beyond, the Federal Open Market Committee of the Federal Reserve, (“ FOMC”) will continue to monitor interest rates, in part to reduce the rate of inflation to its preferred level. In 2024, the FOMC decreased at various dates throughout the year the target range for the federal funds rate from 5.25% to 5.50% to a range of 4.25% to 4.50%. These decreases were made in response to declining inflationary pressures. If the FOMC further increases or decreases the targeted federal funds rates, overall interest rates likely will also rise or fall, which may negatively impact the entire national economy. As a result, an increase or decrease in rates, the length of loan terms or the mix of adjustable and fixed rate loans in our portfolio could have a positive or negative effect on our net income, capital and liquidity. We measure interest rate risk under various rate scenarios and using specific criteria and assumptions. A summary of this process, along with the results of our net interest income simulations, is presented in “Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Although we believe our current level of interest rate sensitivity is reasonable and effectively managed, significant fluctuations in interest rates may have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

An increase in market interest rates may affect the market value of our securities portfolio, potentially reducing accumulated other comprehensive income and/or earnings. Additionally, an increase in market interest rates may reduce the value of our loan portfolio, although, in accordance with U.S. GAAP, such a decline in value may not be reflected in the carrying balance of our loans in the same manner as our debt securities available-for-sale. The market value of these investments may be affected by factors other than the underlying performance of the servicer of the securities or the mortgages underlying the securities, such as changes in the interest rate environment, negative trends in the residential and commercial real estate markets, ratings downgrades, adverse changes in the business climate and a lack of liquidity in the secondary market for certain investment securities. In addition, we may determine to sell securities in our available-for-sale investment securities portfolio, and any such sale could cause us to realize currently unrealized losses that resulted from the recent increases in the prevailing interest rates.

Current wording

An increase in market interest rates may affect the market value of our securities portfolio, potentially reducing accumulated other comprehensive income and/or earnings. Additionally, an increase in market interest rates may reduce the value of our loan portfolio, although, in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”), such a decline in value may not be reflected in the carrying balance of our loans in the same manner as our debt securities available-for-sale. The market value of these investments may be affected by factors other than the underlying performance of the servicer of the securities or the mortgages underlying the securities, such as changes in the interest rate environment, negative trends in the residential and CRE markets, ratings downgrades, adverse changes in the business climate and a lack of liquidity in the secondary market for certain investment securities. In addition, we may determine to sell securities in our available-for-sale investment securities portfolio, and any such sale could cause us to realize currently unrealized losses that resulted from the recent increases in the prevailing interest rates.

Previous wording

We invest in tax-exempt and taxable state and local municipal investment securities, some of which are insured by monoline insurers. As of December 31, 2023, we had $199.7 million of municipal securities, which represented 44.1% of our total securities portfolio. Even though management generally purchases municipal securities on the overall credit strength of the issuer, the reduction in the credit rating of an insurer may negatively impact the market for and valuation of our investment securities. Such downgrade could adversely affect our liquidity, financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

We invest in tax-exempt and taxable state and local municipal investment securities, some of which are insured by monoline insurers. As of December 31, 2024, we had $178.8 million of municipal securities, which represented 48.0% of our total securities portfolio. Even though management generally purchases municipal securities on the overall credit strength of the issuer, the reduction in the credit rating of an insurer may negatively impact the market for and valuation of our investment securities. Such downgrade could adversely affect our liquidity, financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

Under the federal Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (“CERCLA”), owners and operators of properties containing hazardous substances may be liable for the costs of cleaning up the substances. CERCLA and similar state laws can affect us both as an owner of branches and other properties used in our business and as a lender holding a security interest in property which is found to contain hazardous substances. In particular, our branch office located in Iola is located on property that has been designated as a “Superfund” site under CERCLA, and we may hold mortgages on properties located in Iola that are also designated as “Superfund” sites. While CERCLA contains an exemption for holders of security interests, the exemption is not available if the holder participates in the management of a property, and some courts have broadly defined what constitutes participation in management of property. Moreover, CERCLA and similar state statutes can affect our decision whether or not to foreclose on a property. Before foreclosing on commercial real estate, our general policy is to obtain an environmental report, thereby increasing the costs of foreclosure. In addition, the existence of hazardous substances on a property securing a troubled loan may cause us to elect not to foreclose on the property, thereby reducing our flexibility in handling the loan.

Current wording

Under the federal Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (“CERCLA”), owners and operators of properties containing hazardous substances may be liable for the costs of cleaning up the substances. CERCLA and similar state laws can affect us both as an owner of branches and other properties used in our business and as a lender holding a security interest in property which is found to contain hazardous substances. In particular, our branch office located in Iola is located on property that has been designated as a “Superfund” site under CERCLA, and we may hold mortgages on properties located in Iola that are also designated as “Superfund” sites. While CERCLA contains an exemption for holders of security interests, the exemption is not available if the holder participates in the management of a property, and some courts have broadly defined what constitutes participation in management of property. Moreover, CERCLA and similar state statutes can affect our decision whether or not to foreclose on a property. Before foreclosing on CRE, our general policy is to obtain an environmental report, thereby increasing the costs of foreclosure. In addition, the existence of hazardous substances on a property securing a troubled loan may cause us to elect not to foreclose on the property, thereby reducing our flexibility in handling the loan.

Previous wording

The banking and financial services business in our market is highly competitive. Our competitors include large national and regional banks, local community banks, savings and loan associations, securities and brokerage companies, mortgage companies, insurance companies, finance companies, money market mutual funds, credit unions, fintech companies, and other non-bank financial service providers, many of which have greater financial, marketing and technological resources than us. Many of these competitors are not subject to the same regulatory restrictions that we are and may be able to compete more effectively as a result. Increased competition in our market may result in a decrease in the amounts of our loans and deposits, reduced spreads between loan rates and deposit rates or loan terms that are more favorable to the borrower. Any of these results could have a material adverse effect on our ability to grow and remain profitable. If increased competition causes us to significantly discount the interest rates we offer on loans or increase the amount we pay on deposits, our net interest income could be adversely impacted. If increased competition causes us to relax our underwriting standards, we could be exposed to higher losses from lending activities. Additionally, many of our competitors are much larger in total assets and capitalization, have greater access to capital markets and offer a broader range of financial services than we can offer.

Current wording

The banking and financial services business in our market is highly competitive. Our competitors include large national and regional banks, local community banks, savings and loan associations, securities and brokerage companies, mortgage companies, insurance companies, finance companies, money market mutual funds, credit unions, fintech companies, digital asset service providers, and other non-bank financial service providers, many of which have greater financial, marketing and technological resources than us. Many of these competitors are not subject to the same regulatory restrictions that we are and may be able to compete more effectively as a result. Increased competition in our market may result in a decrease in the amounts of our loans and deposits, reduced spreads between loan rates and deposit rates or loan terms that are more favorable to the borrower. Any of these results could have a material adverse effect on our ability to grow and remain profitable. If increased competition causes us to significantly discount the interest rates we offer on loans or increase the amount we pay on deposits, our net interest income could be adversely impacted. If increased competition causes us to relax our underwriting standards, we could be exposed to higher losses from lending activities. Additionally, many of our competitors are much larger in total assets and capitalization, have greater access to capital markets and offer a broader range of financial services than we can offer.

Previous wording

A number of factors may adversely affect the labor force available to us or increase labor costs, including high employment levels, and decreased labor force size and participation. Although we have not experienced any material labor shortage to date, we have recently observed an overall tightening and increasingly competitive local labor market. As of December 31, 2023, Kansas’s unemployment rate was 2.8%. A sustained labor shortage or increased turnover rates within our employee base could lead to increased costs, such as increased compensation expense to attract and retain employees.

Current wording

A number of factors may adversely affect the labor force available to us or increase labor costs, including high employment levels, and decreased labor force size and participation. Although we have not experienced any material labor shortage to date, we have recently observed an overall tightening and increasingly competitive local labor market. As of December 31, 2024, the unemployment rate in Kansas was 3.6%. A sustained labor shortage or increased turnover rates within our employee base could lead to increased costs, such as increased compensation expense to attract and retain employees.

Previous wording

Employee errors and misconduct could subject us to financial losses or regulatory sanctions and seriously harm our reputation. Misconduct by our employees could include hiding unauthorized activities from us, improper or unauthorized activities on behalf of our customers or improper use of confidential information. It is not always possible to prevent employee errors and misconduct, and the precautions we take to prevent and detect this activity may not be effective in all cases. Employee errors could also subject us to financial claims for negligence. We are also subject to losses related to our depositors, whether due to simple errors or mistakes, circumvention of controls, or unauthorized override of controls by our employees, other financial institutions or other third parties.

Current wording

Employee errors and misconduct could subject us to financial losses or regulatory sanctions and seriously harm our reputation. Misconduct by our employees could include hiding unauthorized activities from us, improper or unauthorized activities on behalf of our customers or improper use of confidential information. It is not always possible to prevent employee errors and misconduct, and the precautions we take to prevent and detect this activity may not be effective in all cases. Employee errors could also subject us to financial claims for negligence. We are also subject to losses related to our customers, whether due to simple errors or mistakes, circumvention of controls, incomplete or fraudulent information provided by customers, or unauthorized override of controls by our employees, other financial institutions or other third parties.